Winterthur has a secret. Scattered throughout the various offices, storage rooms, and libraries of our extensive campus is a midcentury modern furniture collection. Represented in this group of furnishings is an incredible spectrum of Knoll and Herman Miller objects purchased as early as 1957. Unity by Design explores the perceived juxtaposition of midcentury modernism at an institution rooted in traditional Americana. This lived collection of approximately 150 objects provides an exciting opportunity to both evaluate how American design operates in a cross-generational context and explore how midcentury modernism was and is experienced.

Visitors will be wrapped up in a midcentury modern interior as they explore the evolution of this distinctly American design movement. They will have the opportunity to take an in-depth look at the construction of midcentury modern furniture to better understand how industrialization and technical innovation influenced the design of these objects. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Winterthur’s first gallery exhibit on midcentury modern furniture! Exhibit is in the Society of Winterthur Fellows Gallery. Included with admission. Members free